United announce Marinos match

Manchester United have added a friendly match against J-League side Yokohama F. Marinos to its pre-season tour of South-East Asia later this year.

United is embarking on an extensive trip to the region, with matches already confirmed against Hong Kong opposition Kitchee FC and an A-League All-Star squad.

But the recent announcement will surely excite United's Japanese fan base, offered the rare chance to see their idols in the flesh, in particular, home-grown superstar Shinji Kagawa.

The Red Devils haven't travelled to Japan since an all-conquering United claimed the Club World Cup in 2008, beating Ecuadorian outfit Liga de Quito 1-0 in the final.

However, fond memories of that night still remain at Old Trafford.

"Manchester United has great memories of playing in Japan and our game against the Yokohama F. Marinos will play an important part of our preseason preparations," United's chief executive David Gill said in a statement.

Former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, on hand at the announcement, confirmed United manager Alex Ferguson would bring a full squad for the tour.